Basil Leaves What is basil herb (Ocimum basilicum)?Basil or sweet basil is a popular culinary herb botanically known as Ocimum basilicum of the family Lamiaceae (mint). Basil is an annual plant, which is originally from Asia before spreading to other parts of the world. Basil is a Greek word βασιλεύς (basileus), which literally means king. Basil, which is highly rich in phyto-nutrients is a popu